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Monday, October 11, 2010

Raw Foodies at Newly Established Organic Lives

The raw, organic food movement has expanded in Vancouver with the newly established restaurant, online and in-store shop, and educational facility called Organic Lives.

I dragged my poor husband and toddler there this afternoon to buy, the only local source for, raw coconut water. Pasteurized coconut water is available everywhere these days, but is most beneficial in its pure, raw form. And, that’s been impossible to find until now. Organic Lives freezes their organic coconut water in BPA free bottles at the source to maintain its fresh, raw state.

The health benefits of raw, coconut water is impressive: strengthening the immune system, aiding digestion, promoting vitality and energy, and hydration. Coconut water is high in potassium, calcium, natural sugars and chloride. And, on those days when my son resists drinking water…I give him a slurp of raw, coconut water to ensure he stays adequately hydrated

In addition to cruising the aisles at Organic Lives…and soaking in their raw varieties of nuts, cocao, salt and spices, dried kale and veggie crackers…We also tried one of their strawberry and chai spice smoothies, which they make with their own homemade almond milk. Commercially sold almond milk contains added sugar, additives, preservatives and beyond. Almond milk is an alternative to cow’s milk and can be added to smoothies or your morning granola. And, it’s easy to make. Here’s a simple recipe:

Almond Milk (5 cups)

Ingredients:

1 cup of raw, unsalted, organic almonds (a handful of brazil nuts optional)
5 cups water
1 to 2 tbsps of maple syrup or 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract (optional)
A blender or a fine Strainer or a cheese cloth

Directions:

1. Place one cup of almonds in a bowl, add a handful of brazil nuts to create a creamier taste
2. Cover the nuts with water by one inch and let stand of 24 hours or more
3. Remove the water, and place the soaked almonds in a blender or food processor, blend together until fine
4. Add three cups of water and then place in a fine strainer into a bowl
5. Place the remaining almonds back in the blender and add two more cups of water to the mix
6. Strain again over the same bowl, then add your vanilla extract (optional)
7. Store in the fridge. Lasts 3 to 5 days.
8. Make a facial scrub with the remaining almond puree!

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